Skydiving Plane Crashes In New Jersey With 15 On Board—3 Are In Critical Condition
In a tragic development unfolding just hours ago, a skydiving aircraft carrying 15 people crashed in a rural area of southern New Jersey, triggering a massive emergency response and leaving a community in shock.
According to state authorities and FAA officials, the small twin-engine aircraft was part of a routine skydiving operation departing from Cumberland County Airport. Witnesses reported hearing a “low sputtering noise” before the plane went down near a wooded field on the outskirts of Millville, shortly after takeoff.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes to find the aircraft heavily damaged and several individuals injured. Officials have confirmed that three victims are currently in critical condition, with multiple others being treated for moderate injuries at nearby medical centers, including Cooper University Hospital and Inspira Medical Center.
“It was chaos,” said one local resident who witnessed the aftermath. “You could hear the sirens from every direction. First responders were running through the brush trying to reach the wreck.”
The names of the passengers have not been released as families are being notified. Preliminary reports suggest most of the people aboard were experienced skydivers and crew, familiar with the route and aircraft.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a joint investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Weather conditions at the time were reportedly clear with light winds — adding to the mystery of what caused the aircraft to go down so suddenly.
A spokesperson from the skydiving company issued a brief statement:
“Our hearts go out to everyone involved. We are cooperating fully with investigators and focusing on supporting the affected families and our team during this incredibly difficult time.”
Local officials are urging the public to avoid the crash site while investigators work through the wreckage.
As the story develops, one thing is clear — this small New Jersey town has been shaken, but it is rallying around the victims, their families, and the first responders who answered the call.